Air intake separator systems and methods

ABSTRACT

An air intake separator system includes a plurality of vanes adapted to remove fluid or precipitation from an air stream, wherein the vanes are operably coupled to tubular rods with an interference fit. Applying an elevated temperature heat transfer fluid to the plurality of vanes removes fluid or precipitation from an air stream in order to prevent ice formation. Likewise, applying a lower temperature heat transfer fluid can cool the vanes.

RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a Continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/664,149, filed Mar. 20, 2015 which claims the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Application No. 61/968,627 filed Mar. 21, 2014, both ofwhich are incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is generally directed to air intake or exhaustseparators, and more particularly, to louver or vane separator systems.

BACKGROUND

There is a need to manage the air handling capability for devicesexposed to the natural environment. Air intake and air handling systemsthat draw in outside ambient air also draw in some amount of fluid orprecipitation. Some air intake systems add moisture to an air stream forperformance advantages such as evaporative cooling and increaseddensity. Other air movement systems need to remove fluids from aprocess, such as exhaust systems. Vanes or louvers reduce or removeunwanted natural or generated fluids from the air stream. To functionproperly, vanes or louvers are spaced at distances that achieve desiredperformance such as fluid removal efficiency, air flow versusrestriction, weight, and structural integrity at various velocities.Vanes are typically made from formed or extruded metals such asstainless steel and aluminum or plastics such as PVC and ABS. Othermaterials or alloys may be also used for different performance scenariosor operating conditions.

Spacing is typically accomplished by adding spacers between each vane orlouver. Traditionally, this style of spacer includes one or moreapertures to interface with one or more rods. In some cases, the spaceris simply a tube cut to a specific length. A rod or plurality of rodstypically insert into the respective apertures that are formed or addedthrough each vane or louver. Adding spacers is very time consuming andis prone to error during assembly. Spacers are often also considered“loose hardware” that is undesirable or unacceptable in manyapplications. Additionally, fabricating specific lengths of spacerslimits performance options. For example, to assemble a traditional vanepack, assemblers must spend hours manually aligning dozens of machinedrods and hundreds of spacers. Moreover, if one spacer is missed orcoupled backwards or upside down, for example, the entire vane pack mustbe disassembled in order to fix the incorrect spacer.

Alternatively, spacing may be accomplished by adding comb-style clipspacers to the front and/or rear of the vane or louver profile. Vanes orlouvers having comb-style spacers are less time consuming to assemble,but are also typically less reliable. Such spacers are also oftenconsidered undesirable or unacceptable “loose hardware” in certainapplications. Comb-style spacers can fall off when handling a vane orlouver pack. Often, comb-style spacers require additional supportstructure during installation and during operation.

Another issue effecting air intakes and air handling systems is frost,ice, or snow build up on vanes or louvers. The buildup can dramaticallydecrease the performance of the vane or louver. At times, the buildupcan completely block the flow of air. For example, ice can form on asurface if the surface temperature is lower than the ambient airtemperature. The mechanism of ice formation is one of precipitation orcondensation, where the dew point of the air is reached and the air isno longer able to support the level of moisture present. The moisturethen precipitates from the air onto the surface. If the surfacetemperature is below freezing the moisture will form into ice. Bycomparison, snow accumulation presents a completely different challenge.Snow formation temperatures are comparatively high as snow is usuallyformed between −2 and +5° C. The problem shifts from formation of ice onthe vanes to one of clogging. Further, freezing fog can often occur atconsiderably lower temperatures than snow.

Some vanes and louvers are electrically heated to prevent the inleticing, snow accumulation, or freezing fog accumulation. This heating istypically accomplished by applying heat tape to channels in the vane orlouver. Electrical heating generally requires skilled labor and/orlicensed electricians to manufacture and install. However, electricalheating is generally not allowed in some applications such asexplosion-proof areas. Additionally, the power consumption can be higherthan is desirable.

Accordingly, there is a need for vane or louver systems configured toremove fluid or precipitation from an air stream that is manufacturedwithout spacers, and further configured for safe and cost-effectiveheating and cooling.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is generally directed to air intake or exhaustseparator systems. In embodiments, air intake separator or exhaustsystems protect turbines, generators, HVAC, ventilation, evaporators,absorbers, gas scrubbers, desulphurization units, gas coolers, naturalgas processing plants, exhaust air treatment plants, chemical plants,air handling units, evaporation systems, and other devices, as will beappreciated by one skilled in the art. Specifically, the presentinvention is directed to air intake or exhaust separator systems andmethods of manufacturing comprising inserting tubes through apertures inthe vanes and subsequently expanding the tubes. The expanded tubes formto the apertures and lock the vanes in place by an interference orfriction fit. Separator systems are thereby configured to remove seaspray, rain, bulk water, salt and other fine deliquesced aerosol debrisfrom air intakes.

In an embodiment, a method of making an air handling or processseparator comprises providing a plurality of vanes, each vane having atleast one aperture, wherein each vane is positioned substantiallyparallel to and spaced apart from the other of the plurality of vanes,and wherein the plurality of vanes are configured to reduce fluid froman air stream passing through the air handling separator; inserting atleast one coupling tube through the at least one aperture of each of theplurality of vanes, the coupling tube comprising an outer tube wall anda hollow void; expanding the at least one coupling tube; and creating aninterference fit between the at least one coupling tube and theplurality of vanes to retain the plurality of vanes.

In an embodiment, an air handling separator comprises a plurality ofvanes, each vane having at least one aperture, wherein each vane ispositioned substantially parallel to and spaced apart from the other ofthe plurality of vanes, and wherein the plurality of vanes areconfigured to reduce fluid from an air stream passing through the airhandling separator; and at least one coupling tube comprising an outertube wall and a hollow void and configured to be inserted through the atleast one aperture of each of the plurality of vanes, wherein aninterference fit between the at least one coupling tube and theplurality of vanes retains the plurality of vanes.

In an embodiment, a system for air handling comprises an air movementsystem configured to generate an air stream; and an air handlingseparator operably coupled to the air movement system such that the airstream passes through the air handling separator, the air handlingseparator comprising a plurality of vanes, each vane having at least oneaperture, wherein each vane is positioned substantially parallel to andspaced apart from the other of the plurality of vanes, and wherein theplurality of vanes are configured to reduce fluid from the air stream;and at least one coupling tube comprising an outer tube wall and ahollow void and configured to be inserted through the at least oneaperture of each of the plurality of vanes, wherein an interference fitbetween the at least one coupling tube and the plurality of vanesretains the plurality of vanes.

In certain embodiments, the present invention is directed to a pack ofmultiple vanes or louvers separated and fixed in place using tubes.According to embodiments, apertures are formed or added to the vane orlouver profile. One or more tubes are inserted through the vanes orlouvers. The vanes or louvers are spaced at the desired spacing. Inembodiments, the spacing between various vanes can be equal or variabledepending on, for example, the performance required. Fluid is added tothe one or more tubes and pressurized until the one or more tubesexpands. The expanded tubes capture the vanes or louvers and hold thevanes or louvers in place.

In certain embodiments, tubes can be constricted in a vacuum-stylemethod of manufacture. When vanes or louvers are in desired positions, avacuum is released, thereby allowing the tube to expand. The expandedtubes capture the vanes or louvers and hold the vanes or louvers inplace. In embodiments, vane or louver securement can also beaccomplished by forcing a solid object that is larger than the innerdiameter of the tube through the tube, thereby mechanically pushing orexpanding the tube diameter. In embodiments, additional material orfluid such as expanding foam can be added to retain the expansion.

In certain embodiments, differential thermal expansion can be utilizedfor vane or louver securement. This is accomplished by heating the vanesand chilling the tubes or rods using, for example, liquid nitrogen. Whenthe vanes and tubes combinations are subsequently assembled andtemperatures normalize, an interference fit is created.

In certain embodiments, a flexible material tube can be inserted throughvane or louver apertures, whereby a solid or semi-solid rod issubsequently inserted into the tube. This causes the tube to expand andgrip the vane or louver apertures, thereby creating an interference fit.In certain embodiments, a fluid can be circulated through the vanes orlouvers or the coupling tubes in an open or closed loop system to heator cool the air stream and achieve a desired performance. In anembodiment, heating with a fluid through the tubes prevents inlet icingand allows the vane or louver to effectively capture and drain fluidfrom the air stream when temperatures are below the freezing point.Cooling with a fluid through the tubes increases the air density,thereby improving the system performance. According to embodiments, heattransfer fluid(s) with or without additives can be added and circulated;for example glycol, methanol, glycerol, water, OAT (organic acidtechnology), or HOAT (hybrid organic acid technology), or oil base.Other heat transfer fluids such as gases can be utilized, according toembodiments.

In certain embodiments, heating can be accomplished by heating a fluidand circulating the fluid through tubes installed in semi-open orenclosed channels in vanes and louvers. According to embodiments,channels generally run the length of the vane or louver. In otherembodiments, tubes can be clipped to the vane. In other embodiments,fluid can be circulated through channels or hollow sections in the vaneor louver. In embodiments of systems of air intake separators protectingan engine, the engine exhaust can be diverted to heat the respectivechannels of the tubes or sections of the vanes or louvers.

In certain embodiments, coupling tubes can be made of a metallicmaterial such as copper, aluminum, stainless steel, brass, alloy,Hastelloy, AL6NX, or any other suitable metallic material. Inembodiments, tubes can be made of a plastic material such as PEX, PVC,CPVC, ABS, PTFE, polypropylene, polyethylene, composite polymer or anyother suitable plasticized material. In embodiments, vanes or louverscan be made of aluminum, copper, stainless steel, brass, alloy, plastic,composite polymer, recycled material, partly recycled material, durablematerial, semi-durable material, or any other suitable material.

In certain embodiments, tubes can have a regular or irregularcross-sectional shape. For example, cross-sectional shapes can compriseround, triangular, rectangular, or oval. In embodiments, othercross-sectional shapes can be utilized, according to, for example, theparticular application of the separator systems or desired manufacturingmethod.

In an embodiment, a method of making a vane separator system comprisespunching a plurality of vanes with one or more apertures. For example,the apertures can be ⅜″ voids. In other embodiments, the apertures cancomprise diameters greater than or less than ⅜″. The method can furthercomprise loading the vanes into a fixture. The method can furthercomprise laser cutting a reusable comb to space the vanes. The methodcan further comprise inserting one or more coupling tubes through thevane apertures. The method can further comprise hydraulically expandingthe coupling tubes to create an interference fit between the couplingtubes at the point of contact with the respective vane. According to themethod of making an air intake or exhaust separator system, the vanepack is solid and ready for a frame and subsequent mounting to the airmovement system that it is to protect. In an embodiment, afterexpansion, the ends of the tubes can be cut off and left open. In suchembodiments, the tubes act as a fastener.

According to a feature and advantage of embodiments, no spacers or loosehardware are required in a vane or louver system. This obviates the needto select a proper spacer material to prevent breaking or cracking ofthe spacers during use. As a result, there is no danger of sendingpieces of the vane or louver system downstream to the turbine. Further,neither the manufacturer nor the end user needs to worry aboutoverheating or melting spacers.

According to a feature and advantage of embodiments, spacing betweenvanes or louvers can be set to match performance needs. In embodiments,variable spacing between vanes of the same system or, more simply, fixeduniform spacing between vanes of the same system according to thespecific application can easily be constructed. In embodiments, avirtually unlimited number of spacing configurations can be created.Tighter vane spacing provides higher efficiency but lower air flow,whereas looser vane spacing provides lower efficiency but a higher airflow. According to embodiments, vane spacing can be set to provide abalance between air flow and efficiency. In embodiments, spacing betweenvanes or louvers can be between 5 mm and 150 mm. In other embodiments,spacing between vanes or louvers can be less than 5 mm or greater than150 mm.

According to a feature and advantage of embodiments, manufacturing timeis greatly reduced. No molds or models of spacers need to be created forembodiments of the invention. More importantly, the assembly time isgreatly reduced compared to traditional vane or louver system assembly.

According to a feature and advantage of embodiments, product strengthand reliability is improved over traditional vane or louver systems. Theinterference fit created between vanes and rods according to systems ofembodiments are substantially stronger than the aggregation of multiplespacers, rods, and vanes of traditional systems.

According to a feature and advantage of embodiments, a heat transferfluid can be easily added to heat the vanes or louvers and prevent inleticing. In embodiments, a heat transfer fluid can be added to heat thetubes coupling the vanes or louvers. According to embodiments, heatingconfigurations eliminate the need for expensive and often dangerousapplication of heat tape. In embodiments, a heat transfer fluid canlikewise be easily removed from the vanes or louvers. Likewise,according to a feature and advantage of embodiments, systems can addheat transfer fluid to heat or cool the air stream for desired airtemperature.

According to a feature and advantage of embodiments, systems combinewater removal with condensing coil technology for substantialperformance gains and reduced system costs compared to traditionalsystems. For example, traditional chiller coils require separate vanesto eliminate condensation. In embodiments of the invention, a single setof vanes is configured for both condensing and water removal.

The above summary of the various representative embodiments of theinvention is not intended to describe each illustrated embodiment orevery implementation of the invention. Rather, the embodiments arechosen and described so that others skilled in the art can appreciateand understand the principles and practices of the invention. Thefigures in the detailed description that follow more particularlyexemplify these embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention can be completely understood in consideration of thefollowing detailed description of various embodiments of the inventionin connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem, according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the air intake or exhaust separator system ofFIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a close perspective view of the air intake or exhaustseparator system of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem without a fluid return, according to an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem, including annotated markings illustrating a portion of a methodof attaching the vanes with a fluid or pneumatic expansion technique,according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem, including annotated markings illustrating a portion of a methodof attaching the vanes with a projectile expansion technique, accordingto an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a side view of an air intake or exhaust separator system,according to an embodiment of the invention, including variousembodiments of a tie rod section.

FIG. 8A is a side view of an air intake or exhaust separator systemformed by a projectile expansion technique of a flexible tube, accordingto an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of a plurality of exemplary flexibletubes of FIG. 8A, according embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary flexible tube of an airintake or exhaust separator system, according to an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 10A is a schematic diagram of an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem including variable pitch vanes or louvers according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10B is a schematic diagram of an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem including variable pitch vanes or louvers according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10C is a schematic diagram of an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem including variable pitch vanes or louvers according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11A is a schematic diagram of an individual vane including aplurality of exemplary channel embodiments for components of the vane.

FIG. 11B is a schematic diagram of an at least partially hollow vane,according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12A is a schematic diagram of an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem, according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12B is a schematic diagram of an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem, according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12C is a schematic diagram of an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem, according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a section of an air separator system ina holding rack, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of two air separator systems, according toembodiments.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an air separator system, according toan embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a side view of an air separator system, according to anembodiment.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the air separator system of FIG. 16,according to an embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of an air intake or exhaust separator systemoperably coupled to an air movement system, according to an embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 19A is a block diagram of an air intake or exhaust separator systemincluding a pump subsystem operably coupled to an air movement system,according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19B is a block diagram of an air intake or exhaust separator systemincluding a pump subsystem operably coupled to an air movement system,according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19C is a block diagram of an air intake or exhaust separator systemincluding a pump subsystem operably coupled to an air movement system,according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem illustrating a horizontally-positioned vane pack, an angled vanepack, and a vertically-positioned vane pack, according to embodiments ofthe invention.

FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram of a hood including a plurality of airintake or exhaust separator systems, according to embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram of a duct having an air intake or exhaustseparator system, according to embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram of a duct having an air intake or exhaustseparator system mounted at an angle, according to embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram of a top-mounted air intake or exhaustseparator system, according to embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram of an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem integrated into a process subsystem, according to embodiments ofthe invention.

FIGS. 26A-26E are test data graphs for an air intake or exhaustseparator system, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 27A-27E are test data graphs for an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem, according to an embodiment.

While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternativeforms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in thedrawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood,however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to theparticular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is tocover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling withinthe spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

According to embodiments of the invention, an air intake or exhaustseparator system comprises a plurality of vanes or louvers adapted toremove fluid or precipitation from an air stream, wherein the vanes orlouvers are operably coupled to tubular rods with an interference fit.

According to embodiments of the invention, an air intake or exhaustseparator system can be created by expanding a tube or rod to retainmultiple vanes or louvers, wherein the air intake or exhaust separatorsystem is adapted to remove fluid or precipitation from the air stream.

According to embodiments of the invention, an air intake or exhaustseparator system comprises a plurality of vanes or louvers adapted toremove fluid or precipitation from an air stream, wherein the air intakeseparator system or vane pack is manufactured without individual ormultiple spacers separating the plurality of vanes or louvers.

According to embodiments of the invention, applying a heat transferfluid to a plurality of vanes or louvers removes fluid or precipitationfrom an air stream in order to prevent ice formation. Likewise, applyinga cool transfer fluid can cool the vanes or louvers.

According to embodiments of the invention, applying a heat transferfluid to a plurality of vanes or louvers removes fluid or precipitationfrom an air stream in order to heat or cool the air stream.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, an air intake or exhaust separator system 100 isdepicted, according to an embodiment. In general, air intake or exhaustseparator system 100 comprises a plurality of vanes 102 (or louvers)spaced apart and at least one tube 104 operably coupling the vanes. Asis readily understood by one skilled in the art, the use of “vanes”includes “louvers” and other similar structures. For simplicity indescribing the embodiments depicted in the figures herein, theterminology “vanes” is used from this point forward. This structure inno way limits the type of vane, louver, or other similar structure thatcan be used, as these embodiments and terminology are given only by wayof example and for ease of discussion, and are not intended to limit thescope of the subject matter of the invention. The plurality of vanes 102are operably coupled to the at least one tube 104 by an interference orfriction fit 106, thereby creating the aforementioned spacing withoutmechanical spacers.

As shown in FIG. 1, system 100 generally comprises a plurality of vanes102. The remaining vanes are not labeled to preserve the readability ofthe figure. The vanes 102 are spaced apart and substantially parallel toeach other. In embodiments, vanes 102 can be positioned nominallyparallel to each other. In other embodiments, vanes 102 can bepositioned such that they are not parallel to each other. For example,by further angling one or more vanes 102 relative to the other vanes 102such that vanes 102 are not parallel to each other, air flow throughsystem 100 can be changed. Likewise, by further angling one or morevanes 102 relative to the other vanes 102 such that vanes 102 are notparallel to each other, the fluid removal properties of system 100 canbe changed.

In an embodiment, vanes 102 can be spaced apart equally throughoutsystem 100. In another embodiment, vanes 102 can be spaced apart suchthat the spacing varies throughout system 100. System 100 can compriseany number of vanes 102. Each of vanes 102 comprise at least oneaperture configured to receive a tube 104. As shown more particularly inFIGS. 2-3, vanes 102 can comprise ridged portions and smooth portions.In an embodiment, each of vanes 102 comprises ridges on both relativesides of vane 102.

Referring specifically to FIG. 2, each of vanes 102 is generally angled,comprising a vertex 110 and a first extending portion 112 and a secondextending portion 114. Each of first extending portion 112 and secondextending portion 114 extend from vertex 110. Each of vanes 102 canfurther comprise one or more projections. For example, vane 102comprises projection 108 a, projection 108 b, and projection 108 c. Inembodiments, projections 108 a-108 c are configured to aid in air flow.In embodiments, projections 108 a-108 c are configured to aid inremoving fluid from an air stream flowing therethrough. For example,projection 108 a can be elongated and rounded. Projection 108 b can beshort and rounded. Projection 108 c can be squared-off. In embodiments,referring specifically to FIG. 3, portions of projections 108 cancomprise smooth surfaces. Likewise, though not labeled on the figures,vanes 102 can comprise similar projections.

In embodiments, vanes 102 can be made of can be made of aluminum,copper, stainless steel, brass, alloy, plastic, composite polymer,recycled material, partly recycled material, durable material,semi-durable material, or any other suitable material.

System 100 further comprises a plurality of tubes 104. As shown in FIG.1, tubes 104 are spaced equally apart. In other embodiments, tubes 104can be spaced apart such that the distance varies between any two tubes.In embodiments, system 100 can comprise any appropriate number of tubes104. In embodiments, as will be described, tubes 104 are configured forcoupling the plurality of vanes 102.

Tubes 104 are generally hollow, in an embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 1-3,tubes 104 can be continuous such that a continuous hollow portion of asingle tube is looped or curved and presented through differentapertures of the same vane 102. In other embodiments, tubes 104 can bediscrete and separated such that a first tube is presented through anaperture of a first vane, and a second tube is presented through adifferent aperture of the first vane. Tubes 104 are therefore configuredto support vanes 102 within system 100.

In embodiments, tubes 104 can be made of a metallic material such ascopper, aluminum, stainless steel, brass, alloy, Hastelloy, AL6NX, orany other suitable metallic material. In embodiments, tubes can be madeof a plastic material such as PEX, PVC, CPVC, ABS, PTFE, polypropylene,polyethylene, composite polymer or any other suitable plasticizedmaterial.

Referring again to FIG. 1, at 106, an interference fit is createdbetween vane 102 and tube 104. Particularly, the fit is created withinan aperture of vane 102. Similar fits are created between the other ofthe plurality of vanes 102, within the respective apertures of vanes102.

Referring to FIG. 4, a schematic diagram of an air intake or exhaustseparator system 200 illustrates the plurality of vanes 202 coupledrespectively to a first tube 204 a and a second tube 204 b, according toan embodiment. In other embodiments, additional or fewer tubes can beutilized. As illustrated by the contrast to FIGS. 1-3, the couplingtubes can be continuous or discrete and separated such that first tube204 a is presented through a first aperture of a first vane 202 a, andsecond tube 204 b is presented through a second aperture of the firstvane 202 a, as shown in FIG. 4. Likewise, first tube 204 a can bepresented through a first aperture of a second vane 202 b, and secondtube 204 b can be presented through a second aperture of the second vane202 b. Once presented in the manner described herein, tubes 204 a-204 bcan be operably coupled to vanes 202 a-202 b, and the other of theplurality of vanes. As will be readily understood by one skilled in theart, similar presentations and couplings can be made with the rest ofthe plurality of vanes and first tube 204 a and second tube 204 b. In anembodiment, vanes can be operably coupled by a fluid or pneumaticexpansion technique. Referring to FIG. 5, a cross-sectional view of anair intake or exhaust separator system 300 is illustrated that depicts amethod of attaching the vanes with a fluid or pneumatic expansiontechnique, according to embodiments of the invention. For example,system 300 can comprise a plurality of vanes 302 and one or more tubes304. In an embodiment, tube 304 can be a cylinder and comprise acircumferential wall 306.

In embodiments, a fluid (denoted by arrows 308) is pumped into tube 304such that fluid 308 forces wall 306 of tube 304 apart after vanes 302have been positioned, thereby creating a fit between vane 302 and tube304. In other embodiments, a pneumatic expansion forces wall 306 of tube304 apart after vanes 302 have been positioned. Consequently, wall 306moves from position 310 a to position 310 b.

In an embodiment, vanes can be operably coupled by a projectileexpansion technique. Referring to FIG. 6, a cross-sectional view of anair intake or exhaust separator system 400 is illustrated that depicts amethod of attaching the vanes with a projectile expansion technique,according to an embodiment of the invention. For example, system 400 cancomprise a plurality of vanes 402 and one or more tubes 404. In anembodiment, tube 404 can be a cylinder and comprise a circumferentialwall 406.

In embodiments, a projectile 408 is positioned or forced into tube 404such that projectile 408 forces wall 406 of tube 404 apart after vanes402 have been positioned, thereby creating a fit between vane 402 andtube 404. The insertion or positioning of projectile 408 is denoted bythe arrows through tube 404 in FIG. 6. Consequently, wall 406 moves fromposition 410 a to position 410 b. A projectile expansion is alsodepicted in FIG. 8A.

Referring to FIG. 7, a side view of an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem 500 is depicted, along with exemplary embodiments of various tierod sections. System 500 generally comprises a plurality of vanes 502and a tie rod 504 operably coupling the plurality of vanes 502. Asdepicted, the tie rod can by round, square, hexagonal, rectangular, orany other suitable shape. In embodiments, a solid rod or tube can beexpanded to grip the vanes or otherwise provide an interference fit. Inembodiments, a solid rod or tube can be coated with glue, a hot meltmaterial, or “welded” to secure the vanes by chemical, thermal, ormechanical fit. In embodiments, a flat bar or other tie rod section cancomprise notches cut for the vanes. In such embodiments, the flat bar isrotated to lock the vanes in place. In embodiments, a tie rod sectioncan comprise additional sections to be rotated, twisted, slid, orotherwise mechanically coupled to lock the vanes in place. Inembodiments, a tie rod can be a continuous or discontinuous cam sectionsuch that rotation or sliding of the tie rod grips the vanes. Inembodiments, a tie rod can be square, round, or comprise a supplementalsection in “wedges” so that relative sliding causes the wedges to gripthe vanes.

For example, a cross-sectional view and a side view of a tie rod 504 ais shown in FIG. 7. As illustrated, tie rod 504 comprises a roundcross-section. Tie rod 504 a can be a solid rod or a hollow tube thatcan be expanded to grip the vanes or otherwise provide an interferencefit.

In another example, a cross-sectional view and a side view of a tie rod504 b is shown in FIG. 7. As illustrated, tie rod 504 b comprises around cross-section. Tie rod 504 b can be a solid rod or a hollow tubethat can be coated with glue, a hot melt material, or “welded” to securethe vanes by chemical, thermal, or mechanical fit.

In another example, a cross-sectional view and a side view of a tie rod504 c is shown in FIG. 7. As illustrated, tie rod 504 c comprises a thinor flat bar cross-section. Tie rod 504 c can comprise notches cut forvanes 502. In such embodiments, tie rod 504 c is rotated to lock vanes502 in place.

In another example, a cross-sectional view and a side view of a tie rod504 d is shown in FIG. 7. As illustrated, tie rod 504 d comprises a morecomplex shape having a thin or flat bar cross-section. Tie rod 504 d cancomprise notches cut for vanes 502. In such embodiments, tie rod 504 dis rotated to lock vanes 502 in place.

In another example, a cross-sectional view and a side view of a tie rod504 e is shown in FIG. 7. As illustrated, tie rod 504 e comprises anelongated circle cross-section. Tie rod 504 e can comprise adiscontinuous cam section. In such embodiments, rotation or sliding oftie rod 504 e grips and retains vanes 502. In a similar embodiment, tierod 504 f can comprise a continuous cam section.

In another example, a cross-sectional view and a side view of a tie rod504 g is shown in FIG. 7. As illustrated, tie rod 504 g comprises asquare or “wedged” cross-section. Tie rod 504 g comprises “wedges” sothat relative sliding causes the wedges to grip vanes 502. In otherembodiments, tie rod 504 g can comprise a round or otherwise “wedged”cross-section.

Referring to FIG. 8A, a side view of an air intake or exhaust separatorsystem 600 formed by a projectile expansion technique of a flexible tubeis depicted, according to an embodiment. As depicted, a plurality ofvanes 602 are positioned at a desired spacing along a flexible tube 604.A rigid tube or rod 606 is subsequently forced through flexible tube604, thereby creating an interference fit at the point where vanes 602interface to flexible tube 604. Flexible tube 604 can comprise a numberof profiles, as illustrated by FIG. 8B. For example, flexible tube 604 acomprises a tube without any inner or outer ridges. Flexible tube 604 bcomprises a tube without any inner ridges, and with outer ridges.Flexible tube 604 c comprises a tube with inner ridges and without anyouter ridges. Flexible tube 604 d comprises a tube with inner ridges andouter ridges. In another example, referring to FIG. 9, a cross-sectionalview of a flexible tube 604 e comprises an inner diameter 608 and anouter diameter 610. As depicted, inner diameter 608 is generally smoothand outer diameter 610 is generally ridged. One skilled in the art willreadily appreciate that other profiles can also be used.

In assembly, referring again to FIG. 8A, flexible tube 604 having inneror outer ridges of embodiments described herein can be inserted into theapertures of vane 602. Subsequently, a rigid tube or rod 606 can beinserted into the hollow tube, thereby causing expansion of flexibletube 604. As a result, the expansion grips the apertures of vane 602 andlocks vanes 602 in place.

Referring to FIGS. 10A-10C, myriad positions for vanes are considered,according to the variation desired by the application of the air intakeor exhaust separator system. In embodiments, all of the vanes or louverscan be positioned uniformly along the coupling tube. In otherembodiments, the vanes have variable spacing, such as open, tight, orintermediate spacing.

For example, referring to FIG. 10A, system 700 comprises a plurality ofvanes 702 and a hood 704. In embodiments as described above, theplurality of vanes 702 can be operably coupled by one or more couplingtubes (not shown). In an embodiment, vanes 702 having an open spacingproximate hood 704 and a tight spacing distal hood 704 creates anangular flow of air generally parallel to hood 704. Therefore, vanes 702are variably spaced throughout system 700.

In another example, referring to FIG. 10B, system 800 comprises aplurality of vanes 802. In embodiments as described above, the pluralityof vanes 802 can be operably coupled by one or more coupling tubes (notshown). In an embodiment, vanes 802 comprise a sequential spacing of afirst tight spacing, an open spacing, and a second tight spacing.Therefore, vanes 802 are variably spaced throughout system 800. The flowof air through the first tight spacing, differs from the flow of airthrough the open spacing. In an embodiment, the first tight spacing andthe second tight spacing are the same. In such embodiments, the flow ofair through the first tight spacing and the second tight spacing are thesame. However, in other embodiments, the first tight spacing and thesecond tight spacing are different. In such embodiments, the flow of airthrough the first tight spacing differs from the flow of air from thesecond tight spacing.

In another example, referring to FIG. 10C, system 900 comprises aplurality of vanes 902. In embodiments as described above, the pluralityof vanes 902 can be operably coupled by one or more coupling tubes (notshown). In an embodiment, vanes 902 comprise a sequential spacing afirst open spacing, a tight spacing, and a second open spacing.Therefore, vanes 902 are variably spaced throughout system 900. The flowof air through the first open spacing differs from the flow of airthrough the tight spacing. In an embodiment, the first open spacing andthe second open spacing are the same. In such embodiments, the flow ofair through the first open spacing and the second open spacing are thesame. However, in other embodiments, the first open spacing and thesecond open spacing are different. In such embodiments, the flow of airthrough the first open spacing differs from the flow of air from thesecond open spacing.

Referring to FIG. 11A, a schematic diagram of an individual vane 1000 isdepicted. In an embodiment, vane 1000 generally comprises a leftmost arm1002, a center arm 1004, and a rightmost arm 1006.

Referring first to leftmost arm 1002 of vane 1000, in an embodiment,leftmost arm 1002 can comprise a formed channel 1006, in an embodiment.In another embodiment, leftmost arm 1002 can comprise a deep catch witha coupled tube 1008. In another embodiment, leftmost arm can comprise adeep catch with a formed channel 1010.

Center arm 1004 can comprise myriad formed channel configurations, asdepicted, in embodiments. In embodiments, the center arm can comprise aplurality of formed channels, such as formed channel 1012, formedchannel 1014, and formed channel 1016.

Rightmost arm 1006 can comprise a catch with a tube added 1018. Inanother embodiment, rightmost arm 1006 can comprise multiple catcheswith multiple tubes 1020. In another embodiment, rightmost arm cancomprise a formed channel 1022. In another embodiment, rightmost arm cancomprise a plurality of formed channels 1024, in embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 11B, according to embodiments, a vane 1100 cancomprise a hollow, semi-hollow, partially hollow, or substantiallyhollow body, as illustrated. For example, vane 1100 comprises a firsthollow body 1102, a second hollow body 1104, a third hollow body 1106,and a fourth hollow body 1108. In embodiments, any of bodies 1102-1108can be semi-hollow, partially hollow, or substantially hollow. Thestructure of bodies 1102-1108 are configured for removal of fluid fromthe air stream through vane 1100.

Referring to FIG. 12A, a schematic diagram of an air intake or exhaustseparator system 1200 is depicted. System 1200 generally comprises aplurality of vanes 1202, at least one coupling tube 1204, and one ormore headers 1206. In an embodiment as depicted, air intake separatorsystem 1200 can comprise one or more headers 1206 on a single side ofsystem 1200. Headers 1206 can be utilized for heating or cooling via thecoupling tubes 1204. In other embodiments, one or more manifolds can bepositioned similar to one or more headers 1206, and utilized similarlyfor heating or cooling via coupling tubes 1204.

Referring to FIG. 12B, an air intake separator system 1300 can compriseone or more headers on multiple sides of system 1300. System 1300generally comprises a plurality of vanes 1302, at least one couplingtube 1304, and one or more headers 1306. In an embodiment, as depicted,air intake separator system 1300 comprises a first header 1306 a on oneside of system 1300, and a second header 1306 b on an opposite side ofsystem 1300. Headers 1306 a and 1306 b can be utilized for heating orcooling via coupling tubes 1304. In other embodiments, one or moremanifolds can be positioned similar to one or more headers 1306 a and1306 b, and utilized similarly for heating or cooling via the couplingtubes 1304.

Referring to FIG. 12C, an air intake separator system 1400 can comprisea mounting with frame walls with or without a header. For example,system 1400 generally comprises a plurality of vanes 1402, at least onecoupling tube 1404, and frame walls 1406. In an embodiment as depicted,air intake separator system 1400 generally comprises a plurality ofvanes 1402, at least one coupling tube 1404, and one or more framesupports 1406. In an embodiment, as depicted system 1400 is mountedthrough frame support 1406 a and frame support 1406 b without anyheaders. In other embodiments, system 1400 can further comprise aheader, wherein frame support 1406 a and frame support 1406 b canfurther support mounting such a system.

Referring to FIG. 13, a perspective view of a section of a separatorsystem 1500 is depicted, according to an embodiment. As depicted, system1200 generally comprises a plurality of vanes 1502 and two couplingtubes 1504. The two coupling tubes 1504 are positioned proximate eachother and generally parallel across a single vane 1502. System 1500 ispictured in a holding rack 1508. Holding rack 1506 comprises a series ofapertures 1508 configured to receive the plurality of vanes 1502 ofsystem 1500. In an embodiment, holding rack 1506 can be utilized duringthe assembly of system 1500.

Referring to FIG. 14, perspective view of two separator systems isdepicted, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, as depicted,system 1600 generally comprises a plurality of vanes 1602 and twocoupling tubes 1604. The two coupling tubes 1604 are positionedproximate each other and generally parallel across a single vane 1602.As depicted, coupling tubes 1604 are offset from the center of thelength of vanes 1602. System 1650 generally comprises a plurality ofvanes 1652 and a plurality of discrete coupling tubes 1654.

Referring to FIG. 15, a perspective view of a separator system 1700 isdepicted, according to an embodiment. System 1500 generally comprises aplurality of vanes 1702 and a plurality of discrete coupling tubes 1704.As depicted, coupling tubes 1704 are positioned off-center from thelength of the plurality of vanes 1702. For example, a first set ofcoupling tubes 1704 is positioned nearly to one side of system 1700.Another set of coupling tubes 1704 is positioned more proximate thecenter, but still offset from the center of the length of the pluralityof vanes 1702.

Referring to FIGS. 16-17, a side view and a perspective view of aseparator system 1800 are respectively depicted, according to anembodiment. System 1800 generally comprises a plurality of vanes 1802, aplurality of coupling tubes 1804, and a manifold 1806. As depicted,coupling tubes 1804 are each continuous such that a continuous hollowportion of a single tube 1804 is looped or curved and presented throughdifferent apertures of the same vane 1802 and further coupled tomanifold 1806. In operation, as described herein, manifold 1806 can beutilized to present fluid through the plurality of coupling tubes 1804.

Referring to FIG. 18, a block diagram of an air intake or exhaustseparator system 1900 operably coupled to an air movement system 1902 isdepicted. In an embodiment, air intake separator system 1900 protectsair movement system 1902. For example, in embodiments, air movementsystem 1902 can comprise a generator, HVAC, ventilation, evaporator,absorber, gas scrubber, desulphurization unit, gas cooler, natural gasprocessing plant, exhaust air treatment plant, chemical plant, airhandling unit, or evaporation system. Air intake separator system 1900protects air movement system 1902 by providing a screen of vanes at aspecific distance apart. In embodiments, air intake separator system1900 is directly fastened or mounted to air movement system 1902. Inother embodiments, air intake separator 1900 is placed distal orslightly distal from air movement system 1902 and fastened distal orslightly distal from air movement system 1902.

Referring to FIG. 19A, a block diagram of an air intake or exhaustseparator system 2000 operably coupled to an air movement system 2002 isdepicted. In an embodiment, air intake or exhaust separator system 2000generally comprises a pump subsystem 2003. In an embodiment, pumpsubsystem 2003 can comprise a fluid source 2004 and a heating/coolingelement 2006 in combination with a pumping element 2008 configured topush fluid from fluid source 2004 through a plurality of vanes 2010 ofair intake or exhaust separator system 2002. For example, a heattransfer fluid such as glycol can be sourced from fluid source 2004 andsubsequently heated by heating element 2006. In another embodiment, airis pumped or runs through vanes 2010 and is heated or cooled dependingon the performance desired. In such embodiments, air is considered afluid and can be sourced from fluid source 2004.

Referring to FIG. 19B, a block diagram of an air intake or exhaustseparator system 2100 operably coupled to an air movement system 2102 isdepicted. In an embodiment, air intake or exhaust separator system 2100generally comprises a pump subsystem 2103. In an embodiment, pumpsubsystem 2103 can comprise a fluid source 2104 and recovered heat froma process 2106, and a pumping element 2108 configured to push the fluidfrom fluid source 2104 through a plurality of vanes 2110 of air intakeor exhaust separator system 2102. For example, a heat transfer fluidsuch as oil can be heated by process 2106 (for example, hot lube oilfrom a turbine). The “free” heat from the oil is therefore cooled by therouting through vanes 2110, at the same time preventing inlet icing andfacilitating airstream temperature management. In another embodiment,heated air is pumped or runs through vanes 2110 and is heated. In suchembodiments, air is considered a fluid and can be sourced from fluidsource 2104. In embodiments, as depicted by the airflow annotations,airflow can be in either direction for both intake or exhaust.

Referring to FIG. 19C, a block diagram of an air intake or exhaustseparator system 2200 operably coupled to an air movement system 2202 isdepicted. In an embodiment, air intake or exhaust separator system 2200can be operably coupled to a pump subsystem 2203. As depicted, pumpsubsystem 2203 is discrete from air intake or exhaust separator system2200, in an embodiment. The coupling of pump subsystem 2203 and airintake or exhaust separator system 2200 can be electrical and/ormechanical, by electrical wiring and appropriate conduit to connect pumpsubsystem 2203 and air intake or exhaust separator system 2200. In otherembodiments, pump subsystem 2203 is physically incorporated into airintake or exhaust separator system 2200.

In an embodiment, pump subsystem 2203 can comprise a fluid source 2204and a heating/cooling element 2206, and a pumping element 2208configured to pushing the fluid from fluid source 2204 through the vanesof air intake or exhaust separator system 2200 (not shown in FIG. 19C).For example, a heat transfer fluid such as glycol can be heated byheating element 2206. In another embodiment, air is pumped or runsthrough the vanes of air intake or exhaust separator system 2200 and isheated or cooled by heating/cooling element 2206 depending on theperformance desired. In such embodiments, air is considered a fluid andcan be sourced from fluid source 2204.

Referring to FIG. 20, a schematic diagram of an air intake or exhaustseparator system illustrating a horizontally-positioned vane pack 2300,an angled vane pack 2302, and a vertically-positioned vane pack 2304, isdepicted, according to embodiments of the invention.Horizontally-positioned vane pack 2300, angled vane pack 2302, andvertically-positioned vane pack 2304 are operably coupled or integratedinto hood 2306. The arrows in FIG. 20 and subsequent figures illustrateair flow direction options. The relative angles of the respective vanepack positioning can have an impact on restriction and efficiency. Inapplications, one of horizontally-positioned vane pack 2300, angled vanepack 2302, or vertically-positioned vane pack 2304 can be utilized inpre-existing or new construction hoods. For example, a particularapplication can require a particular positioning of the separatorsystem, such as horizontal, vertical, or any other angle. Inembodiments, fluid is removed prior to a process. In other embodiments,fluid is removed after a process. The vanes can be located at an inletor exhaust as depicted in hood 2306, but can also be located withinprocess subsystems.

Referring to FIG. 21, a schematic diagram of a hood 2400 including aplurality of air intake or exhaust separator systems is depicted. Hood2400 includes a first separator system 2402 and a second separatorsystem 2404. As depicted, first separator system 2402 and secondseparator system 2404 can respectively be positioned at multiple anglesranging from vertical to horizontal, in embodiments. Vanes of firstseparator system 2402 and second separator system 2404 can be located atan inlet or exhaust, but could also be located within the processsubsystems.

Referring to FIG. 22, a schematic diagram of a duct 2500 having an airintake or exhaust separator system is depicted. In embodiments, an airseparator system, or more particularly, the vanesof a separator system,can be located upstream or downstream in a duct or inlet. For example, afirst separator system 2502 is mounted upstream in duct 2500. A secondseparator system 2504 is mounted downstream in duct 2500. Inembodiments, only a single separator system can be utilized, eitherupstream or downstream.

Referring to FIG. 23, a schematic diagram of a duct 2600 having an airintake or exhaust separator system 2602 mounted at an angle is depicted.In embodiments, air intake separator system 2602, or more particularly,vanes of separator system 2602, can be located upstream or downstream ina duct, inlet, or exhaust. Separator system 2602 is depicted as mountedat generally a 45 degree angle relative to duct 2600. However, inembodiments, separator system 2602 can be mounted less than or more than45 degrees relative to duct 2600.

Referring to FIG. 24, a schematic diagram of a top-mounted air intake orexhaust separator system 2700 is depicted. In embodiments, top-mountedair intake separator system 2700, or more particularly, vanes ofseparator system 2700, can be mounted on a roof 2702, and can be locatedupstream or downstream in a duct, inlet, or exhaust.

Referring to FIG. 25, a schematic diagram of an air intake or exhaustseparator system 2800 integrated into a process subsystem 2802 isdepicted. In embodiments, air separator system 2800 can be integratedwith any suitable recovery process subsystem 2802. For example, recoveryprocess subsystem 2802 can comprise a chemical process subsystem, ascrubber process subsystem, or a gas cooler process subsystem. Separatorsystem 2800 can similarly be incorporated into other subsystems. Assuch, separator system 2800 can be positioned proximate recovery processsubsystem 2802.

Referring to FIGS. 26A-26E, a set of test data graphs for an embodimentof an air intake or exhaust separator system is depicted. FIG. 26Adepicts exemplary air temperature change vs. velocity for 120 degree F.upstream air with 42 degree F. water. FIG. 26B depicts exemplary airtemperature change vs. velocity for 34 degree F. upstream air with 140degree F. water. FIG. 26C depicts efficient water droplet removal,illustrating fractional efficiency vs. particle diameter. FIGS. 26D-26Edepict low pressure loss as initial pressure loss vs. velocity. As shownby the test results of FIGS. 26A-26E, droplet catchers embodied by vanesof an embodiment create substantial turbulence that translates intosubstantial heat transfer. The actual measured thermal performance wasapproximately 40% better than the estimates made by estimating softwarefrom manufacturers of traditional standard coils. The test data graphsare illustrative of an embodiment, and are in no way limiting as to thescope of data corresponding to such embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 27A-27E, a set of test data graphs for an embodimentof an air intake or exhaust separator system is depicted. FIG. 27Adepicts exemplary air temperature change vs. velocity for 120 degree F.upstream air with 42 degree F. water. FIG. 27B depicts exemplary airtemperature change vs. velocity for 34 degree F. upstream air with 140degree F. water. FIG. 27C depicts efficient water droplet removal,illustrating fractional efficiency vs. particle diameter. FIGS. 27D-27Edepict low pressure loss as initial pressure loss vs. velocity. As shownby the test results of FIGS. 27A-27E, droplet catchers embodied by vanesof an embodiment create substantial turbulence that translates intosubstantial heat transfer. The actual measured thermal performance wasapproximately 40% better than the estimates made by estimating softwarefrom manufacturers of traditional standard coils. The test data graphsare illustrative of an embodiment, and are in no way limiting as to thescope of data corresponding to such embodiments.

The embodiments above are intended to be illustrative and not limiting.Additional embodiments are within the claims. In addition, althoughaspects of the present invention have been described with reference toparticular embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize thatchanges can be made in form and detail without departing from the scopeof the invention, as defined by the claims.

Persons of ordinary skill in the relevant arts will recognize that theinvention may comprise fewer features than illustrated in any individualembodiment described above. The embodiments described herein are notmeant to be an exhaustive presentation of the ways in which the variousfeatures of the invention may be combined. Accordingly, the embodimentsare not mutually exclusive combinations of features; rather, theinvention may comprise a combination of different individual featuresselected from different individual embodiments, as will be understood bypersons of ordinary skill in the art.

Any incorporation by reference of documents above is limited such thatno subject matter is incorporated that is contrary to the explicitdisclosure herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above isfurther limited such that no claims that are included in the documentsare incorporated by reference into the claims of the presentApplication. The claims of any of the documents are, however,incorporated as part of the disclosure herein, unless specificallyexcluded. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is yetfurther limited such that any definitions provided in the documents arenot incorporated by reference herein unless expressly included herein.

For purposes of interpreting the claims for the present invention, it isexpressly intended that the provisions of Section 112, sixth paragraphof 35 U.S.C. are not to be invoked unless the specific terms “means for”or “step for” are recited in a claim.

1. An air handling separator comprising: a plurality of vanes, whereineach vane is positioned substantially parallel to and spaced equallyapart from the other of the plurality of vanes, and wherein theplurality of vanes are configured to reduce fluid from an air streampassing through the air handling separator; and at least one tubecomprising an outer tube wall and a hollow void, said tube configured tobe disposed parallel to each of the vanes, and wherein the tube isconnected to a header tube running transverse to the plurality of vanes.2. The air handling separator of claim 1 wherein the tube is integrallyformed into the plurality of vanes.
 3. The air handling separator ofclaim 1 wherein the tube is disposed in a channel formed within theplurality of vanes.
 4. The air handling separator of claim 1 wherein theplurality of vanes are formed to include a hook section wherein the tubeis disposed.
 5. The air handling separator of claim 1 wherein each ofthe plurality of vanes comprises a vertex, a first extending portion anda second extending portion, wherein the first extending portion and thesecond extending portion extend from the vertex at an angle
 6. The airhandling separator of claim 5 wherein the tube is disposed at the vertexof the vane.
 7. The air handling separator of claim 5 wherein the tubeis disposed at the first extending portion and the second extendingportion.
 8. The air handling separator of claim 5 wherein each of theplurality of vanes comprises at least two tubes on the first extendingportion.
 9. A system for air handling comprising: an air movement systemconfigured to generate an air stream; and an air handling separatoroperably coupled to the air movement system such that the air streampasses through the air handling separator, the air handling separatorcomprising; a plurality of vanes, wherein each vane is positionedsubstantially parallel to and spaced apart from the other of theplurality of vanes; wherein each of the plurality of vanes comprises avertex, a first extending portion and a second extending portion,wherein the first extending portion and the second extending portionextend from the vertex at an angle; wherein at least one vane tube isdisposed parallel to each of the vanes, said vane tube is connected to aheader tube running transverse to the plurality of vanes; and whereineach of the plurality of vanes comprises a first aperture and a secondaperture, and wherein at least one coupling tube passes through thefirst aperture and the second aperture, the at least one coupling tubecomprising an outer tube wall and a hollow void and configured to beinserted transversely through the first aperture and second aperture ofall of the plurality of vanes, wherein the coupling tubes creates afluid path to improve heating or cooling performance; and a pumpsubsystem operably coupled to the air handling separator, the pumpsubsystem comprising; a pump; a fluid source including fluid; and aheater-cooler configured to apply a heating or cooling temperature tothe fluid, wherein the pumping mechanism is configured to pump the fluidthrough the at least one coupling tube and the at least one vane tube toheat or cool the air stream.
 10. The system for air handling of claim 9,wherein the plurality of vanes are mounted according to at least one ofa horizontal position relative to the direction of an air stream fromthe air movement system, an angled position relative to the direction ofthe air stream from the air movement system, and a vertical positionrelative to the direction of the air stream from the air movementsystem.